According to Andy Farrell, the discussion regarding Australia’s suitability as a future destination for the British and Irish Lions tour was “offensive”.
The Lions are aiming for a clean sweep in the series when they meet their rivals for the last game in Sydney this Saturday. Farrell has adjusted his starting XV, bringing in lock James Ryan and wing Blair Kinghorn.
Australian rugby is experiencing considerable difficulties both on and off the field. It is considered the weakest of the three nations visited by the British and Irish rugby elite, alongside South Africa and New Zealand, which complete the regular 12-year rotation.
Moreover, support is growing for the Lions to tour France, considering their national team’s strength, robust club game, and promising commercial opportunities.
Fixture
British & Irish Lions
Australia
British & Irish Lions
The Wallabies responded to criticism at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, pushing the second Test to its limit in a memorable match, before eventually falling 2-0 behind when Hugo Keenan scored with just 51 seconds remaining.
When questioned if Australia had merited the opportunity to host another tour, Farrell stated: “In my view, it was never in question.”
“Every team, nation, and province encounters highs and lows, but Australia, being the sporting country it is, will always recover.”
“Consider their upcoming year. By the time the 2027 World Cup comes around, they will undoubtedly be a formidable force.”
“It would be a shame not to tour here. We’ve had an amazing time. To me, discussing it negatively feels disrespectful.”
Ryan is replacing Ollie Chessum. Farrell praised Ryan for the “intensity” he brings to the less glamorous aspects of the game up-front. Kinghorn was chosen over James Lowe due to his “unpredictability” and aerial prowess, particularly given the expected wet and windy conditions at Accor Stadium.
Farrell expressed his gratitude for the players who haven’t played in the series yet, noting that they have fully committed to helping the Test team prepare to compete against the Wallabies.
“It genuinely moves you, seeing how much it means to them,” Farrell remarked. He noted that 27 players would have participated in the three matches against Australia by Saturday night.
“The individuals who celebrated the most on Saturday night were those who had not yet worn the jersey. That says everything.”
“From day one, we came together with the understanding that the team is the only thing that matters, period. We’ve all been united in this from the start.”
Farrell’s achievements as Lions head coach, as well as his clear enthusiasm for the concept, position him as the frontrunner to lead the next tour to New Zealand. However, he insists he is only focused on attending an Oasis concert at Croke Park upon his return home.
“Would I want to do this again? Give me a break! I need to get through Saturday first. I have genuinely loved every moment, and I knew I would because I simply love what the Lions represent,” he stated.
“Thinking about the future isn’t on my mind until I return home and reflect on the entire experience.”
“I am definitely going to see Oasis, and that is why I am going home! I’ll be taking some friends along. Some of the coaches here are trying to join in.”
